5 Reasons Why 'Define The Relationship' Is The Must-Read BL Manhwa On Lezhin

Contents
As of December 21, 2025, 'Define the Relationship' (DTR) remains one of the most talked-about and critically acclaimed Boys' Love (BL) manhwa series on Lezhin Comics. This completed Korean webtoon, celebrated for its exquisite art and profound emotional depth, successfully transcended the typical "fxckbuddy" genre it initially suggested, evolving into a poignant, character-driven love story set within a unique Omegaverse framework. The series, which has captivated a massive global audience, is a perfect example of a mature-rated title that prioritizes genuine connection and consent, making it a staple recommendation for any BL enthusiast. The story centers on the tumultuous yet tender relationship between the aristocratic Alpha, Karlyle Frost, and the seemingly ordinary Omega, Ash Jones. Their journey is fraught with family pressure, societal expectations, and the complexities of a non-traditional Alpha/Omega dynamic that challenges the very foundation of their world. The creators, Flona and Chada, crafted a narrative that is as visually stunning as it is emotionally resonant, providing a fresh perspective on a popular, often saturated, genre.

The Core Entities: Creators and Main Characters Profile

To fully appreciate the depth of Define the Relationship, it is essential to understand the brilliant minds behind the story and the central figures driving the narrative. The manhwa is an adaptation of a novel, contributing to its rich world-building and character development.

  • Flona (Original Writer/Novelist):
    • Role: Original Author of the webnovel that the manhwa is based on.
    • Known For: Creating intricate plots and deeply emotional character arcs.
    • Latest Update: Flona has been noted for attending fan events, such as the scheduled Anime NYC '25, indicating continued engagement with the global fanbase.
  • Chada (Illustrator/Artist):
    • Role: Manhwa Artist, responsible for the breathtaking, detailed visuals and character designs.
    • Known For: Breathtaking art, particularly praised for detailed expressions, beautiful floral backdrops, and stunning scenery.
  • Haeyeon (Script):
    • Role: Scriptwriter for the manhwa adaptation.
  • Karlyle Frost (Protagonist - Alpha):
    • Status: First son of the noble Frost family.
    • Core Conflict: He is a "non-dominant Alpha," a status that causes him immense distress and social pressure, leading him to seek counseling for his unsatisfactory sexual life.
    • Personality: Often described by fans as someone who "looks like will kill you, is a cinnamon bun," highlighting his outwardly cold demeanor and deeply kind, internal nature.
  • Ash Jones (Protagonist - Omega):
    • Status: The Omega who enters Karlyle's life.
    • Personality: Described as "v wholesome" and a gentle contrast to Karlyle's complicated existence.
    • Relationship Detail: It is revealed they had a significant, albeit brief, encounter (a kiss) six years prior to the main events.

The Burden of the Non-Dominant Alpha: Karlyle's Core Conflict

The true genius of Define the Relationship lies in its subversion of the traditional Alphaverse trope, primarily through its protagonist, Karlyle Frost. In a society where the Frost name is synonymous with powerful, "dominant Alphas," Karlyle's status as a non-dominant Alpha is a source of intense personal and familial shame.

This "disorder" is the initial catalyst for the plot. Karlyle is pressured into obligatory, unsatisfying sexual relationships with Omegas, but his body and mind resist. This creates a profound sense of isolation and inadequacy, making him a deeply sympathetic character despite his high status. The story is predominantly told from his perspective, allowing the reader to be privy to his innermost thoughts and feelings, which are numerous and complex.

His counseling sessions and attempts to manage his "condition" highlight the rigid, often cruel, expectations placed upon the Alpha class. Karlyle's journey is not just about finding love, but about finding self-acceptance and defining his own worth outside of his secondary gender status. His initial confusion and distress over his body's "abnormality" set the stage for a relationship that must be built on trust and emotional connection, not just biological imperative.

From 'Fxckbuddy' to Forever: The Karlyle and Ash Dynamic

The most compelling aspect of Define the Relationship is the slow, deliberate evolution of Karlyle and Ash’s connection. The series initially presents a scenario that hints at a casual, purely physical arrangement, fitting the "fxckbuddy" tag it carries.

However, the manhwa quickly pivots, using this physical starting point as a foundation for a deep, emotional romance. Fans consistently praise the relationship for its wholesome and consensual nature, a refreshing take in a genre often criticized for its lack of focus on consent. Ash, the wholesome Omega, becomes the unexpected anchor in Karlyle's chaotic life. Their chemistry is lauded for being compelling and unique, standing out in the crowded BL landscape.

The development is a masterclass in character writing: Karlyle, the outwardly cold aristocrat, slowly reveals his "cinnamon bun" interior to Ash, while Ash provides the stability and unconditional acceptance Karlyle has desperately needed. The narrative shifts from exploring Karlyle's sexual dysfunction and societal burden to focusing on how two people, despite their vastly different social and biological statuses, can genuinely fall in love and choose to define their relationship on their own terms.

The Unique, Consensual Omegaverse Lore

The Omegaverse is a popular subgenre in BL, but Define the Relationship offers a non-traditional and highly praised interpretation. The lore includes concepts like:

  • Non-Traditional Dynamics: The existence of a non-dominant Alpha like Karlyle challenges the rigid hierarchy, introducing nuance and conflict beyond simple dominance.
  • Emotional Connection Over Instinct: The success of Karlyle and Ash's bond is not driven by the typical heat cycles or rutting instincts that dominate the subgenre, but by genuine emotional intimacy. This makes the eventual physical intimacy far more meaningful.
  • Mpreg Inclusion: The story also touches on the concept of Mpreg (Male Pregnancy), a common yet often controversial element of Omegaverse, handled with a focus on the characters' emotional readiness and relationship stability.

By focusing on emotional depth and character-driven plots, the creators effectively use the Omegaverse as a backdrop to explore themes of identity, social class, and self-worth, rather than letting the lore overshadow the romance. This approach is precisely why the manhwa, which is now complete on Lezhin, continues to receive overwhelmingly positive reviews for its beautiful art, well-developed characters, and satisfying conclusion.

The manhwa’s completion means new readers can binge the entire story, experiencing the full arc of Karlyle and Ash’s journey without waiting for weekly updates. For those who crave more, the original webnovel by Flona is also available, providing an even deeper dive into this complex and beloved world.

5 Reasons Why 'Define the Relationship' is the Must-Read BL Manhwa on Lezhin
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